The King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia has recently detailed a collaboration with Cisco to promote the development of AI. The arrangement involves establishing a new AI institute at KAUST, a move which is expected to contribute to broader Saudi Arabian digital goals as part of its Vision 2030 strategy to diversify its economy.
Cisco stated it is bringing its networking, cybersecurity and cloud-scale AI expertise to the table, with KAUST providing leading research capabilities and facilities.
The institute will focus on AI R&D along with education and staff skills. Cisco stated work would cover native communication systems and advanced edge infrastructure to propel the next industrial revolution spanning intelligent factories along with autonomous mobility and transport systems.
KAUST President Sir Edward Byrne credited a collaboration with Cisco spanning more than 20 years as a key element in the university’s work to-date and said the AI institute would be “crucial for equipping our students with the vital skills needed for jobs of the future”.
Cisco chair and CEO Chuck Robbins concurred, explaining staff skills are an important element in unlocking the potential of AI.
The partners intend to promote local AI talent as part of the initiative.
Source: Mobile World Live
Image Credit: Stock Image
